Become a Mentor

Shape the next generation of UBC founders 

Innovation UBC mentors play a vital role in helping early-stage entrepreneurs navigate uncertainty, build confidence, and move their ventures forward.

By sharing your experience, asking thoughtful questions, and helping founders think more clearly, you can make a meaningful difference at a pivotal stage in their journey.

Why Mentor with Innovation UBC?

Our mentors support one of Canada’s most dynamic university entrepreneurship ecosystems. They work with researchers, students, and early-stage founders who are turning ideas, discoveries, and technologies into real-world impact.

Mentorship at Innovation UBC is not about having all the answers. It is about helping founders develop their own judgment, expand their thinking, and build resilience as leaders.
 

Our Approach

Coaches first, experts second. We ask mentors to guide, not direct.

That means helping founders think through challenges, test assumptions, and consider new possibilities — while recognizing that the venture belongs to the team building it.

Our strongest mentors combine lived experience with curiosity, generosity, and good judgment.

 

 

Where Mentors Contribute

Venture Founder

Venture Founder

Our flagship venture-building program supports founders across software, deep tech, and research-intensive ventures through structured cohort programming.

Lab2Market

Lab2Market

This program helps researchers explore the commercial potential of their discoveries and better understand pathways from lab to market.


Mentors are thoughtfully matched to ventures and programs based on background, sector experience, and availability.

 

Get to know our mentors through our Mentor Spotlights
 


 

What You’ll Gain

Give back in a meaningful way

Support founders at an important stage in their development and contribute to ventures with real potential.

Stay close to new ideas

Engage with emerging technologies, new sectors, and the energy of early-stage company building.

Grow your own skills

Mentoring sharpens how you listen, coach, communicate, and lead.

 
 
 


 

Join a strong community

Connect with other experienced mentors, entrepreneurs-in-residence, and Innovation UBC staff who are committed to helping founders succeed.

By the Numbers

UBC’s innovation ecosystem has helped generate:

250+ 
mentors

300+ 
mentees

10,500+
mentoring hours

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome experienced:

  • entrepreneurs
  • intrapreneurs
  • operators
  • industry professionals
  • commercialization and innovation leaders

You do not need to have mentored before. What matters most is a willingness to support founders with insight, openness, and care.

What the Commitment Looks Like

Time commitment varies by program, with mentors typically contributing 30 minutes to 1.5 hours per week during a cohort, and flexibility built in to work around your schedule.

From onboarding and orientation to resources and ongoing check-ins throughout the program, our team is with you every step of the way, so you feel confident and find the experience fulfilling.


Mentor Applications Are Open

Thank you for your interest in supporting UBC's entrepreneurial community through mentorship.

To apply, please complete our expression of interest form, and our team will follow up with next steps.

Apply Now

Based in the Okanagan?

Learn more about mentorship opportunities through UBC Okanagan's Venture Mentoring Service.

Learn more

 
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